Winterising your motorcycle is one of the best ways to protect it from cold weather damage and ensure it’s ready to ride when spring arrives. Storing your bike properly during the off-season helps prevent corrosion, battery drain, and fuel system issues. Whether you own a sports bike, cruiser, or daily commuter, here’s a complete guide on how to winterise a motorcycle the right way.
1. Clean Your Motorcycle Thoroughly
Before storage, wash your bike to remove road grime, salt, and dirt. These can cause corrosion if left on during winter. After cleaning, dry all surfaces completely and apply a wax or protective spray to metal parts for extra defense against moisture.
2. Change the Oil and Filter
Old oil contains contaminants that can harm your engine when sitting for months. Replacing the oil and filter before winter storage ensures your engine is clean and protected. Use the oil type recommended by your manufacturer for best performance.
3. Treat the Fuel with a Stabilizer
Fuel starts to degrade after a few weeks, leading to clogged injectors or carburetors. To prevent this, add a fuel stabilizer for motorcycles like STA-BIL® Fuel Stabilizer before your last ride of the season. Run the engine for a few minutes to let the treated fuel circulate through the system. This step keeps fuel fresh and prevents varnish or gum buildup.
4. Maintain the Battery
Disconnect the battery or use a trickle charger to prevent it from discharging completely. Storing the battery indoors, away from freezing temperatures, also helps extend its life.
5. Store the Motorcycle Properly
Keep your bike in a dry, covered area—preferably indoors. Use a breathable motorcycle cover to protect it from dust and condensation. Inflate the tires to the proper pressure, and if possible, place the bike on a stand to relieve pressure on the tires during storage.
Proper motorcycle winter storage is essential for maintaining performance and preventing costly repairs. By cleaning, changing fluids, stabilizing the fuel, and protecting your battery, you’ll ensure your bike starts easily and runs smoothly when riding season returns. A little preparation now saves a lot of trouble later.
